Mbabane – The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade has warned the public about a WhatsApp account falsely claiming to be the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade.
The ministry said it became aware of communications originating from an unauthorised South African mobile number in which the sender identifies themselves as the minister and engages members of the public under false pretences.
The ministry was clear that the account has no association with the minister and is not an official communication channel of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade. 
Members of the public are advised to exercise caution and refrain from responding to, engaging with, or sharing personal information with anyone claiming to be the minister through unofficial channels. Any requests for money, votes, personal information or other forms of assistance made through such accounts should be treated as suspicious.
The matter has been reported to the relevant authorities for investigation and appropriate action. The ministry also encouraged anyone who may have received similar communications to report the matter to the relevant authorities and to verify any questionable communication through official ministry channels.
